

#509: Good Shame; Bad Shame
6 snips May 20, 2019
Joseph Burgo, a clinical psychologist and author, dives deep into the intricate nature of shame. He argues that while shame often carries a negative connotation, some forms can actually foster personal growth. Burgo discusses the difference between toxic and productive shame, the roots of shame in childhood experiences, and how societal expectations, especially around masculinity, complicate emotional responses. He offers insights on transforming shame into a catalyst for self-improvement and addresses the dangers of online shaming in today’s culture.
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Shame: A Family of Emotions
- Shame is a complex family of emotions, including guilt, embarrassment, and humiliation.
- These emotions share a painful self-awareness, varying in intensity and duration.
Evolutionary Basis of Shame
- Shame has evolutionary roots, likely promoting group cohesion and conformity.
- By discouraging behaviors that jeopardize the tribe, shame enhances survival.
Guilt vs. Shame
- Guilt, a type of shame, focuses on specific actions, unlike broader shame.
- While guilt is less pervasive, it still evokes a negative self-assessment.